Hip-hop icon Jay-Z has publicly spoken about the civil sexual assault lawsuit that was filed against him and fellow music figure Sean “Diddy” Combs, which was voluntarily dismissed in early 2025. The lawsuit alleged the pair had raped a 13-year-old girl at a party in 2000, claims which both men denied.

In a lengthy new interview with GQ, Jay-Z discussed the experience of facing the lawsuit and its aftermath, describing the period as “really hard” and emotionally “heartbreaking.” He strongly rejected the allegations, dismissing them as a “blackmail attempt,” and emphasised his decision never to settle the case out of court.

“I can’t take a settlement, it ain’t in my DNA. I can’t do it, I would die,”

Jay-Z said, explaining that accepting a settlement would have compromised his principles and values. He made it clear his choice was driven by a commitment to clear his name and protect his family from the impact of the claims.

The rapper also addressed how the lawsuit affected his personal life, revealing the emotional toll it took on him and those close to him. He spoke about feelings of anger and frustration as a result of being publicly accused, and highlighted how the situation forced him to confront intense public scrutiny.

Jay-Z’s comments came as part of a wider discussion about his life and career during the interview, which coincides with the 30th anniversary of his debut album. While reflecting on his legacy and the evolution of his music, he also touched on current issues within the hip-hop world, discussing rivalries and cultural tensions in the genre.

Despite the legal battle now being behind him, Jay-Z’s decision to speak openly about the experience marks one of his most personal interviews in years. He has consistently maintained his innocence throughout, and his refusal to settle the case has been a defining aspect of how he chose to respond to the serious allegations.

Support from his family, including his wife Beyoncé and their children, was also a theme in other reports on the interview, with Jay-Z describing moments of support and unity amid the turmoil. Although the lawsuit was dismissed, he acknowledged the profound emotional challenges that came with being at the centre of such allegations.